Lower Grades Arts
Inspiring self-expression through creativity.
Students in grades 3-5 begin to pursue their own curiosities in art and music. With opportunities to try new mediums in the art studio, use their voice in the choral ensemble, play instruments, or perform on stage, they begin to creatively and confidently connect with their unique talents and nurture newly discovered abilities.
Visual Arts
Explorations in different mediums such as painting, drawing, collage, fiber, paint, and pottery immerse children in the power of their own creativity. Students are taught within a sequential program that is adapted to support each individual’s developmental skills. Advanced Art opportunities are available for exceptionally dedicated and talented students.
Choral Music
Once students reach the third grade, they can choose whether or not to stay in General Music or try an instrument. Students in grades 4 and 5 who remain in the choral program participate in the beginning choral ensemble, The Darlington Singers. In a true choral setting, this group reinforces music theory and sight-reading, which encourages students to continue vocal study, preparing them for opportunities in middle grades and beyond.
Instrumental Music
Once students reach the third grade, they have the opportunity to move from General Music to Strings, where they can play the violin, viola, cello or bass in a Beginning Orchestra class. In fourth grade, students choose between General Music, Strings or Band. In Band, they can select an instrument to play in a beginning band ensemble, which focuses on the development of musicianship and technique to master an instrument which will prepare them for performing with the middle grades concert band and beyond.
Theater
As students grow at Darlington, they develop as performers in class plays, concerts, and presentations such as the Third Grade Wax Museum and Fifth Grade Insect Expo. This allows students to not only experience the stage, but to build self-confidence at an early age as they memorize speaking parts and work on their projection and expression.
Arts Academy
The Darlington Arts Academy offers high-quality instruction and performance opportunities to students of all ages and levels of experience. A full range of training is offered through private lessons and small group instruction, drawing on the expertise of various local music and art educators. For our third- through fifth- grade students, the Arts Academy Lessons program offers private instruction to students in piano, woodwinds, brass, percussion, strings, guitar and voice.
See what's new in Lower Grades Arts.
Creativity comes to life every day. Explore the incredible artwork, performances, and artistic achievements of our lower grades students, and picture yourself at Darlington.
